PdM Solutions Program Design & Options

How to Design a PdM Solutions Program

Select machines to monitor:
Choosing machines to survey is based on criticality – how does a failure impact production and what are the costs to replace/repair. VibrAlign engineers work closely with our clients to apply condition monitoring to the right rotating assets to ensure maximum value.
Select frequency of monitoring:
How often we collect data for analysis not only involves criticality, but also the nature of the process, hours of operation, and the costs of monitoring. Again, we work closely with each client to decide the appropriate level of service that will deliver performance and value. Typically, machines are surveyed every 4, 8 or 12 weeks.
Accessibility:
Some machines that are desirable to monitor are not accessible for portable sensor mounting. In this case, we can provide hardware to permanently mount sensors wired to a junction box for data acquisition. Installation is performed by a certified VibrAlign analyst.

Program Term: One and two year programs are available.
Data Collectors: Facilities have the option to either purchase their data collectors or rent them for the term of the PdM Solutions program. The rental fee or purchase price will be included in the PdM Solutions monthly fee. We offer a range of data collectors:
a. DCA50—this is typically the instrument delivered with a PdM Solutions program. State of the art 4 channel data collector with intuitive “Windows Explorer” interface and possibility for balance upgrade.
b. DCA31—Should you choose to opt out on owning the data collector, VibrAlign will ship a DCA 31 loaner for each scheduled survey. A return shipping label is included for expedited return to VibrAlign. This option is less expensive for programs with very few machines and less frequent surveys.
c. DCX—Full-featured data collector combined with ExpertALERT software onboard. The DCX is a rugged tablet PC with similar data collection functionality to the DCA50, but with full data analysis software included. Consider this option if the near term goal is to train an in-house analyst who will completely take over the program within 2 years.

Several options are available as add-ons to your PdM Solutions program including:

Balancing: Additional hardware is required for your data collector, as well as 1.5 additional days training in field balancing.
Alignment: Choose one of VibrAlign’s laser alignment systems to include in your PdM Solutions program. 1–2 days additional hands-on training will be delivered during your installation visit.
Certification: VibrAlign is authorized by the Vibration Institute to conduct Category I and II certification classes. Testing is administered at the conclusion of coursework.